All You Need To Know About Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) or non-bacterial prostatitis is a condition associated with tightness in the muscles in and around the pelvis.1 These muscles can trigger a variety of symptoms such as:
- Pain in the testicles, tip of the penis, rectum, around the pubic bone, or bladder area
- Increased frequency of urination
- Obstruction in urine stream (i.e. hesitancy or weak stream)
- Pain with urination
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain during or post-ejaculation
- Burning sensation in the pelvic area often aggravated by prolonged sitting or stress
Because pelvic health can be a very sensitive topic, many men fail to receive the appropriate treatment to address their concerns. The effects of CPPS can therefore go on for several months to years in some cases without treatment, which may lead to significant anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy in regard to their sexual health.
Studies have found that CPPS is associated with reductions in quality of life similar or greater than those associated with angina, congestive heart failure, Crohn’s disease, and diabetes.
Who Can Treat Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is an effective form of treatment for CPPS as it addresses the tight or weak muscles that may be creating the above symptoms.
In a study done by Anderson and colleagues (2006), pelvic floor physiotherapy techniques resulted in significant improvement in pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, libido, ejaculatory pain, and erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction associated with CPPS.3 It is important to rule out other associated conditions, such as bacterial prostatitis or a urinary tract infection, before seeking treatment through pelvic floor physiotherapy.
Diagnosis
A urine sample should be taken to make sure you do not have a bladder infection. A bladder infection can sometimes cause the same symptoms. Sometimes, a swab or a sample of prostatic fluid will be taken to look for signs of infection as well. Depending on your symptoms, your age, and your family history, you and your doctor may decide to screen for prostate cancer as well. If these tests are normal, there are no other diagnostic tests which help to make the diagnosis.
What Else You Can Do to Help
Studies have shown that non-drug therapies can help to reduce pain levels and enhance pain coping. These include:
- Relaxation
- Meditation
- Activity pacing
- Cognitive behavioural therapy
These self-management strategies can help you to improve your function so you can do more and enjoy life more.
How Can We Help?
Nicole Stokes, Pelvic Floor physiotherapist comes with lots of experience in treating chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Pillars of Wellness provide a comfortable and spacious setting with private treatment rooms.
For more information on Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome, visit curecpps.com.
1. Dorian C., R., and Nickel C.,J. (2018). Evaluation of the male with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Canadian Urological Association Journal, 12: 152-154.
2. Schaeffer A.,J. (2006). Chronic Prostatitis and the Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome. New England Journal of Medicine, 355:1690-1698.
3. Anderson R., U., et. al. (2006). Sexual Dysfunction in Men With Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Improvement After Trigger Point Release and Paradoxical Relaxation Training. Stanford University School of Medicine: The Journal of Urology. 176: 1534-1537.
Mari Mueller, Physiotherapy
